Ear Microsuction Services
Available at Ashvale Pharmacy and Travel Clinic
About Ear Wax
Ear wax, or cerumen, is a naturally occurring substance produced by the glands in the outer ear canal. While it might not typically occupy our thoughts, ear wax plays a crucial role in maintaining ear health by serving as a protective layer against dirt, debris, and bacteria.
This waxy substance is essential in preventing foreign bodies, such as dust, from entering the ear canals and potentially causing damage to the eardrum. Additionally, ear wax helps in preventing ear infections and contributes to the moisturization of the interior of the ears.
The excess production of ear wax is not uncommon, and the ears are designed to be self-cleaning. Normally, there’s no need for concern about removing earwax, as the ears typically manage this process on their own. However, issues may arise when there is an overproduction of ear wax.
Ear Microsuction services in Ashvale Pharmacy and Travel Clinic
What is Ear Wax
The production of excess earwax can be influenced by several factors. The ear is designed to be self-cleaning, and earwax serves a protective role. However, if you find yourself dealing with an abundance of earwax, it could be due to various reasons, such as:
Naturally-occurring variation: People naturally produce different amounts of earwax. Genetic factors can contribute to variations in wax production.
Age: The consistency and production of earwax may change with age. Older adults may experience drier earwax, making it more likely to accumulate and cause blockages.
Narrow or hairy ear canals: Some individuals have narrower or more hairy ear canals, which can impede the natural flow of earwax out of the ear.
Use of hearing aids or earplugs: Devices that are placed in the ear, such as hearing aids or earplugs, can interfere with the normal migration of earwax out of the ear canal.
Frequent use of earphones or earbuds: Regular use of headphones or earbuds can also impact the natural cleaning process, leading to a buildup of earwax.
Skin conditions: Certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis, may affect the ear canal and contribute to excess earwax.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as hearing loss, ear pain, dizziness, or ringing in the ears, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can assess the situation and provide guidance on safe and effective methods for managing or removing excess earwax. It’s essential to avoid inserting objects into the ear canal, as this can push wax further down and potentially cause damage.
Do i need ear wax removal?
Types of Earache
Earaches manifest in various forms, ranging from sharp, dull, to even burning pain. The discomfort can be intermittent or constant, affecting one or both ears, although it commonly occurs in a singular ear.
How to Treat Earache
Alleviating earache can involve using painkillers and applying a warm or cold flannel to the affected ear. It’s crucial to avoid inserting anything into the ear canal, including cotton buds.
What Causes Earache
Earaches can stem from various sources. Common causes include colds, flu, teething, glue ear, wax accumulation, a perforated eardrum, and conditions like sore throat or tonsillitis.
Seeking Assistance from Our Pharmacy Team
If you are experiencing earache, our pharmacy team at Ashvale Pharmacy and Travel Clinic provides guidance on the most effective treatments. They can also assess whether a visit to your GP is necessary for further evaluation and care.
Symptoms to look out for include
- Dizziness
- Hearing loss
- Ear pain
- Ear itchiness
- Tinnitus
- Muffled sounds
- Blocked ears or ears that feel ‘full’
Frequently asked questions
Ear microsuction is a simple process which entails the use of a gentle vacuum machine to leave the ear dry and free of wax. The end results for the patient are better hearing and cleaner ears.
Most of the time, our ears keep themselves clean and free of dust and debris, but there are occasions when it doesn’t happen, your age or a possible infection might cause a build up. If you have a wax build-up, an infection or some unwanted debris in the ear, our pharmacists may decide the best way to make things right is via ear microsuction.
In general the procedure isn’t painful at all, although it can be somewhat noisy. The skin inside the ear canal is sensitive so it’s important to stay still when asked to do so.
Because the process is carried out with the help of a powerful microscope, more wax and other debris can be reached and removed. The procedure tends to be quicker and more comfortable than other forms of wax removal. The main benefit after is usually a significant improvement in hearing.
Many people choose to have an ear microsuction procedure on a regular basis to keep their ears cleaned, although the regularity always depends on the individual needs of the patient. Some choose to undergo microsuction every three months while others may do so once a year.